BRIGHT spark Sandra Morrison has achieved a rare double - by qualifying as a lawyer in her native Germany while practising in the UK.

Sandra, 32, who lives in Altrincham, is an assistant solicitor at Pannone and Partners in Manchester, specialising in commercial litigation and insolvency.

Now Sandra has passed examinations she took in Stuttgart after an 18-month course which involved attending lectures in Germany for one week in every four.

Frankfurt-born Sandra said: ''I decided to obtain the qualification after a number of requests for advice from German companies and individuals and English companies who had business or other trading interests in Germany.

''With the increase in European legislation, it is becoming even more vital for businesses to have access to comprehensive across-the-border services. Most dual Anglo-German lawyers are in or around London. There are many north west businesses which trade in Germany and I can now advise them on both the English and German legal systems.''

Meanwhile, Hammonds Suddards Edge is creating a European network of offices.

The law firm, which has a base in Manchester and a presence in Brussels, will open branches in Berlin and Munich on April 1 after recruiting partners and associates from Knauthe Paul Schmitt.

It has also announced plans to merge with Hausmann and Associates, of Paris, in May. Hausmann has five partners and nine associates.

Another major Manchester law firm is also forging links with counterparts in Germany.

On Thursday, DLA will join forces with Gorg, which has 34 solicitors spread between Cologne, Frankfurt and Essen.